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This New Jersey gambling mecca seems to have outgrown its seedy reputation over the years to become a destination known for its world-class dining and hotels, along with a rejuvenated downtown that long had been thought of as derelict and dangerous. It’s a popular weekend spot for residents of nearby New York City. A bus and train line connect Manhattanites with Atlantic City (or “AC,” as East Coasters refer to it).

Borgata Hotel, Casino &amp; Spa

You could explore the Borgata for an entire weekend and likely not get bored--the idea behind AC’s gigantic resorts, which aim to keep you entertained, fed and gambling on their premises so you don’t take your dollars (or bucket of quarters) elsewhere. Rooms and suites in the full-service hotel feature floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms and customized lighting. The 24-hour casino has all the standard live and machine gaming options. The six upscale, fine-dining restaurants include Old Homestead Steakhouse and Izakaya, a Japanese eatery. Five casual-dining options include Noodles of the World and Borgata Buffet. The Borgata brings national comedy and music acts to its event center. Spa Toccare and Immersion Spa at The Water Club offer the full menu of spa treatments. Two nightclubs and a “rock bar” round out the Borgata experience. Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa One Borgata Way Atlantic City, NJ 08401 (866) MY BORGATA theborgata.com

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City

If you want to get away from the Boardwalk, check out Harrah’s, which sits on a marina in an inlet. The full-service 2,588-room property has the tallest hotel tower in AC. The resort’s Tropical Paradise complex, reserved for hotel guests age 21 and older, is a 90-foot dome that houses palm trees, Jacuzzis, pools and a pool bar. The hotel also has an indoor family pool, a supervised teen center, a fitness center and the full-service Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa. The 113,000-square-foot casino features 3,700 slots and a poker room that has been host to the World Series of Poker. Four fine-dining options include The Steakhouse and McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant. Six casual eateries offer a range of food and drinks, and include coffee bars and the Waterfront Buffet. Harrah’s event center and lounges bring national and regional entertainment acts. The nightclubs Xhibition and Eden keep the crowds rocking late into the night. Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City 777 Harrah’s Blvd. Atlantic City, NJ 08401 (800) 645-6774 harrahsresort.com

Showboat Atlantic City

This Mardi Gras-themed resort just off the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk features a full-service hotel with 1,300 rooms and suites. It’s also home to the House of Blues nightclub, concert venue, bar and restaurant, and one of the hotel towers is named after the brand. The House of Blues has two live-music rooms, slots, a poker room and the three-story night spot, Club Worship. The property also features a fitness room, a rooftop pool, gift shops and the full-service Vive Day Spa & Salon. The Showboat has a range of fine-dining and casual restaurants, many featuring Louisiana or Cajun cuisine, including Canal Street Bread & Sandwich Co., French Quarter Buffet and Mansion Cafe. Showboat Atlantic City 801 Boardwalk Atlantic City, NJ 08401 (800) 621-0200 showboatac.com

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About the Author

Based in the Southwest, John C. Lauzon is a freelance writer and editor who has been writing professionally since 1997. His articles have appeared in "Details," "New York Press," "Entertainment Weekly," "British Esquire," "Penthouse" and "German GQ." He worked in magazine publishing for 10 years in New York City. Lauzon received a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology from Indiana University.

Images related to Atlantic City, New Jersey

Self made image. GDFL. Aerial view of the Borgata complex. Hotel, Casino, and Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey

AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center Atlantic City Campus in Atlantic City, NJ. Photo Taken from Street View Across the street of the AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center at the Parking Garage for Caesars Casino in Atlantic City, NJ